A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cherokee vs. Pasadena for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Cherokee or Pasadena?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Pasadena, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a fascinating, cultural, and genuine town. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Pasadena

Pasadena is a charming, picturesque, and quaint city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cherokee and Pasadena: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Pasadena?

Both Pasadena and Cherokee have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Cherokee is better known for its hiking, while Pasadena is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Cherokee is more touristy than Pasadena and is known for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. Pasadena is well known for being the home of the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl.

How is Cherokee different from Pasadena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pasadena and Cherokee. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cherokee or Pasadena?

Cherokee
Pasadena

Pasadena is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Pasadena can be an interesting and educational experience. There's a good number of museums around town that include kids' museums, art museums, and local museums. Popular museums include the USC Pacific Asia Museum, the Norton Simon Museum, and the Pasadena Museum of History. Many people also enjoy touring the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Cherokee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.


Is the Food Better in Cherokee or Pasadena? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cherokee
Pasadena

Pasadena is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Pasadena makes for a great culinary experience. Local restaurants feature southern California cuisine as well as international flavors. Dishes often use local ingredients that are fresh and seasonal. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.

Cherokee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Cherokee or Pasadena Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Pasadena

Pasadena is notable for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Pasadena has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Much of the nightlife scene is concentrated around Old Pasadena. You'll find clubs, bars, and lounges that begin the evening with Happy Hours and then become more party-focused as the evening progresses.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cherokee. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Is Cherokee or Pasadena Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Pasadena

Cherokee is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Pasadena is not a hiking destination.

Cherokee is a popular spot for hiking. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Pasadena is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Pasadena?

Cherokee
Pasadena

Pasadena is notable for shopping. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Pasadena is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Old Pasadena is where you'll find some of the best shopping. It's filled with a charming atmosphere and interesting boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cherokee. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Cherokee or Pasadena Better for Families?

Cherokee
Pasadena

Cherokee is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cherokee is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.

Pasadena is a family-friendly town. There are a number of kid-friendly museums around town including Kidspace Children's Museum. There are also nature centers, playgrounds, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

Is Cherokee or Pasadena Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Pasadena

Cherokee is notable for couples. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Cherokee is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Pasadena is a nice destination for couples. It's a charming town with a bit of a European vibe and plenty of outdoor activities. Fine dining and interesting shopping make this a nice weekend destination.


Is Cherokee or Pasadena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Pasadena

Cherokee is a good destination for backpackers. However, Pasadena is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cherokee. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Pasadena is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for most backpackers.

Is Cherokee or Pasadena Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cherokee
Pasadena

Pasadena is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Pasadena has a few public transit options. Buses and light rail offer local transit and connect the city to nearby Los Angeles.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.

Is Cherokee or Pasadena a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Pasadena

Pasadena is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

Pasadena is somewhat walkable. Most people head to Old Pasadena, which is the most concentrated and walkable part of the city.

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable town. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.


For even more information, also check out Is Cherokee Worth Visiting? and Is Pasadena Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pasadena or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Pasadena?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cherokee and Pasadena. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cherokee than in Pasadena. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pasadena.

Families should spend more time in Cherokee than Pasadena. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cherokee, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Pasadena than Cherokee. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Pasadena that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pasadena than Cherokee if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Pasadena.


  • How many days in Cherokee or Pasadena? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Pasadena 1-3

One day in Cherokee or Pasadena?

The town of Cherokee offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The city of Pasadena offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cherokee or Pasadena?

Cherokee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cherokee, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Pasadena is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pasadena, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cherokee or Pasadena?

Cherokee is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pasadena is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Cherokee or Pasadena?

Cherokee is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Pasadena is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pasadena or Cherokee?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $174, while the average daily cost in Pasadena is $62. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cherokee and Pasadena in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Pasadena $25
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Pasadena $50
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Pasadena

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Pasadena? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cherokee


Hotels in Pasadena


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cherokee Hotel Prices and Pasadena Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Pasadena $21

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Pasadena?

Prices for flights to both Pasadena and Cherokee change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cherokee $16
    Pasadena $19

Typical Food Prices in Pasadena

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pasadena are as follows:


  • Casual Dinner Out (family of 4)
    $58

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Pasadena -

Tours and Activities in Pasadena

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pasadena are as follows:

  • Haunted Walking Tour: $33
  • Old Pasadena Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $49
  • LA: East Side Guided Film Locations Tour: $350

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Pasadena -


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cherokee and Pasadena, we can see that Cherokee is more expensive. And not only is Pasadena much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pasadena would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pasadena and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cherokee would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cherokee than you might in Pasadena.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cherokee Expensive? and Is Pasadena Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Pasadena?

Pasadena has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Pasadena, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Cherokee or Pasadena?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cherokee or Pasadena in the Summer?

Both Pasadena and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pasadena in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cherokee is generally a little warmer than Pasadena. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 81°F (27°C), and Pasadena fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In July, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Pasadena. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Pasadena 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Pasadena in the Autumn?

Both Pasadena and Cherokee during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cherokee in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Pasadena for the shopping scene during these months.

Cherokee is cooler than Pasadena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Pasadena fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Cherokee usually gets more rain in October than Pasadena. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Pasadena 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Pasadena in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and Pasadena. Most visitors come to Cherokee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Pasadena because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cherokee can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cherokee is much colder than Pasadena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cherokee in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Pasadena averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Pasadena. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 2.5 inches (63 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Pasadena 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Pasadena in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Pasadena.

In April, Cherokee is generally around the same temperature as Pasadena. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 62°F (17°C), and Pasadena fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Cherokee usually gets more rain in April than Pasadena. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Pasadena 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Pasadena and Cherokee

Cherokee Pasadena
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 62°F (16°C) 1.6 inches (42 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)